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Order and pay for your 2025 Mishloach Manot - one of the four mitzvot of Purim! Purim In Wisconsin with Chabad Lubavitch March 13-14, 2025 The festival of Purim commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia from Haman’s plot to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews in a single day. It is celebrated with Megillah readings, gifts of food, charity to the poor, feasting, and merriment. In addition to the miracle of Jewish survival despite the efforts of our enemies, Purim celebrates G‑d’s intimate involvement in every aspect of this world. Even though there were no overt miracles recorded in the Megillah—indeed, His name is not even mentioned once—G‑d was actively “pulling the strings” to care for His nation. Find a Megillah reading or event at your local Chabad! FULL LIST OF EVENTS Cedarburg Jewish Discovery Center Chabad of the Bay Area Chabad of Bayside / The Shul Chabad of the East Side / The Shul East Chabad of Glendale & River Hills Chabad of Kenosha Chabad of Madison Chabad of Mequon Chabad of Waukesha & Brookfield Chabad of Wauwatosa Purim Resources What is Purim Purim Study Purim Stories Purim Recipes Engage your kids in the holiday. Learn More

Celebrate Sukkot and Simchat Torah with Lubavitch of Wisconsin. Find events, service times, and resources to experience the joy of the festivals including ordering a lulav and etrog, purchasing or locating a sukkah, and finding a Simchat Torah celebration near you. Sukkot & Simchat Torah In Wisconsin with Chabad Lubavitch Sept. 25 - Oct. 4, 2026 Order Your Sukkot Supplies Sukkot Sukkot commemorates G‑d sheltering our ancestors as they traveled from Egypt to the Promised Land. The seven days of Sukkot are celebrated by dwelling in the sukkah, a temporary hut exposed to the weather; making a blessing as we hold the "Four Kinds" – a palm branch (lulav), two willows (aravot), a minimum of three myrtles (hadassim) and one citron (etrog) – and rejoicing. Sukkot — when we expose ourselves to the elements in greenery-covered huts — commemorates G‑d sheltering our ancestors as they traveled from Egypt to the Promised Land. The Four Kinds express our unity and our belief in G‑d’s omnipresence. Coming after the solemn High Holidays, Sukkot is a time of joy and happiness. The first two days (or one day in Israel) are yom tov, when work is forbidden, candles are lit in the evening, and festive meals are preceded with Kiddush and contain challah dipped in honey. The remainder of the days are quasi holidays, known as chol hamoed. We dwell in the sukkah and take the Four Kinds every day (except for Shabbat, when we do not take the Four Kinds). Simchat Torah Following the seven joyous days of Sukkot , we come to the happy holiday of Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah. In the diaspora, the first day is known by its biblical name, Shemini Atzeret. We still dwell in the sukkah, but without a blessing. Yizkor , the memorial for the departed, is also said on this day. The highlight of the second day, Simchat Torah (“The Joy of the Torah”), is the hakafot, held on both the eve and the morning of Simchat Torah, in which we march and dance with the Torah scrolls. After the final aliyah of the Torah, we immediately begin a new cycle from the beginning of Genesis (from a second Torah scroll); this is because as soon as we conclude studying the Torah, G‑d’s infinite wisdom, on one level, we immediately start again, this time to discover new and loftier interpretations. Both days are celebrated by nightly candle lighting, festive meals at both night and day, and desisting from work . In Israel, the entire holiday is compacted into one heady 24-hour period. For access to a sukkah and a full list of Sukkot & Simchat Torah holiday celebrations, contact your local Chabad! Cedarburg Jewish Discovery Center Chabad of the Bay Area Chabad of Bayside / The Shul Chabad of the East Side / The Shul East Chabad of Glendale & River Hills Chabad of Kenosha Chabad of Madison Chabad of Mequon Chabad of Waukesha & Brookfield Chabad of Wauwatosa Friendship Circle of Wisconsin Save The Date! Sunday, October 12th | 4-7 PM 6789 N. Green Bay Ave. | Glendale, WI Expect all the goodness you love: LED dance floor, rides, tasty food, 21+ sukkah lounge, and more! Plus, there will be some exciting new additions you won't want to miss. So pencil us in! Or better yet, grab the permanent marker. Get Your Tickets Sukkot Resources Candle Lighting Times What is Sukkot Sukkot Study Sukkot Stories Sukkot Recipes Simchat Torah Resources Candle Lighting Times What is Simchat Torah Simchat Torah Study Simchat Torah Stories Simchat Torah Recipes Engage your kids in the holiday. Learn More

Explore Jewish schools across Wisconsin, including preschools, day schools, and high schools focused on dual curriculum education, Torah values, and community. Schools Our preschools , elementary school and high school offer children the opportunity to embark on a journey of discovery, developing a passion for learning and a positive identity rooted proudly in their Judaism. Each curriculum focuses on providing a high-quality Jewish and general education that embodies Jewish morals, elicits self-confidence, and upholds the high academic expectation. There's a place for every Jewish child. Find the fit that's right for you and your family. Preschools Preschools Jewish Beginnings Preschool Jewish Beginnings Preschool 6401 N Santa Monica Blvd., Milwaukee Acclaimed for its warm environment that nurtures each child’s unique gifts, Jewish Beginnings serves a c ross-section of the Milwaukee Jewish community. The school holds accreditation from the prestigious National Association for the Education of the Young Child. Jewish Beginnings provides youngsters with the development of character, love of learning, and the foundation for thoughtful, moral decision-making. Learn More Mequon Jewish Preschool Mequon Jewish Preschool 2233 N. Mequon Road, Mequon MJP creates a rich and challenging educational landscape that fosters expression and invites children to absorb and discover the world. Our curriculum brings Judaism to life through Torah traditions, mitzvot, and connection to Israel. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia educational approach, MJP uses research-based thematic learning that supports academic skills, construction of knowledge, and divergent thinking. Learn More Chai Tots Preschool - Madison Chai Tots Preschool - Madison 1722 Regent Street, Madison Chai Tots Preschool is a creative, Reggio-inspired Jewish environment where children receive a warm, happy and enriching educational experience. Each child’s individual style of learning is valued and supported. Our purpose is to provide the highest quality education in a secure, and stimulating atmosphere that nurtures positive self-esteem and helps build the foundation for successful development and growth. Learn More Brookfield Torah Tots Preschool Brookfield Torah Tots Preschool 1275 N. Barker Road, Brookfield By providing a loving environment, we aim to empower our children to use their unique capabilities to impact their surroundings. We nurture and educate by blending Judaic and secular themes into a program that is rich, fulfilling, and stimulating. We are dedicated to meeting each child’s physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual needs to create a foundation for confident and caring adults. Learn More Bader Hillel Academy Elementary School Elementary Bader Hillel Academy 6401 N Santa Monica Blvd., Fox Point Combining science, math, and literacy with the underpinnings of Torah, K5-8th grade students build a strong Jewish identity, connection to their heritage, and love for Israel. Children from diverse backgrounds form lasting friendships in a warm, welcoming environment. The school’s competitive curriculum positions students for leadership in high schools, yeshivas, colleges, and 21st-century life. Learn More Bader Hillel High School High School Bader Hillel High 6789 N Green Bay Avenue, Glendale Bader Hillel High is a dual-curriculum, college-prep Jewish high school with a full general and Judaic studies curriculum. Utilizing an innovative project-based learning curriculum, students develop the cognitive skills and knowledge to succeed in college, career, and life. Our goal isn’t just to create book-smart graduates; we want our students to develop as ethical people who put their beliefs into practice. Learn More Hillel High | Boys Hillel High | Girls

Celebrate Sukkot and Simchat Torah with Lubavitch of Wisconsin. Find events, service times, and resources to experience the joy of the festivals including ordering a lulav and etrog, purchasing or locating a sukkah, and finding a Simchat Torah celebration near you. Sukkot & Simchat Torah In Wisconsin with Chabad Lubavitch October 15-22, 2027 The seven days of Sukkot are celebrated by dwelling in the sukkah, taking the Four Kinds – a palm branch (lulav), two willows (aravot), a minimum of three myrtles (hadassim) and one citron (etrog) – and rejoicing. Sukkot is followed by Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah (October 23-25). Sukkot — when we expose ourselves to the elements in greenery-covered huts — commemorates G‑d sheltering our ancestors as they traveled from Egypt to the Promised Land. The Four Kinds express our unity and our belief in G‑d’s omnipresence. Coming after the solemn High Holidays, Sukkot is a time of joy and happiness. The first two days (or one day in Israel) are yom tov, when work is forbidden, candles are lit in the evening, and festive meals are preceded with Kiddush and contain challah dipped in honey. The remainder of the days are quasi holidays, known as chol hamoed. We dwell in the sukkah and take the Four Kinds every day (except for Shabbat, when we do not take the Four Kinds). Order Sukkot Supplies Sukkot Street Party Sunday, Oct. 20th | 4-7 pm Join the entire Jewish community as we celebrate Sukkot at the annual Sukkot Street Party! There will be festive fun for adults and kids alike! LED Dance Floor | Rides | Carnival Games | Bungee Jump | Face Paint | Balloon Twisting | Strolling Entertainment | Bubble Extravaganza | Roaming Photo Booth | Airbrushing | And MORE! This year we're featuring a Kosher Chinese buffet from Chicago's Hamachi. Adults, we've got you covered with an open bar and adult sukkah option! RSVP Now For access to a sukkah and a full list of holiday celebrations, contact your local Chabad! Cedarburg Jewish Discovery Center Chabad of the Bay Area Chabad of Bayside / The Shul Chabad of the East Side / The Shul East Chabad of Glendale & River Hills Chabad of Kenosha Chabad of Madison Chabad of Mequon Chabad of Waukesha & Brookfield Chabad of Wauwatosa Sukkot & Simchat Torah Resources Candle Lighting Times What is Sukkot Sukkot Study Sukkot Stories Sukkot Recipes Engage your kids in the holiday. Learn More

Celebrate Passover (Pesach) with Lubavitch of Wisconsin. Find Passover programs, and resources to experience the joy of the festival including ordering shmurah matzah and finding a Seder near you. Pesach In Wisconsin with Chabad Lubavitch April 21-29, 2027 Order Shmurah Matzah Now Sell Your Chametz The eight-day Jewish holiday of Passover is celebrated in the early spring, from the 15th through the 22nd of the Hebrew month of Nissan, April 12 - 20, 2025. Passover (Pesach) celebrates the deliverance of the Jewish people from slavery in ancient Egypt, when we became a nation. Pesach is observed by avoiding leaven (chametz), and highlighted by the "Seders" on the first two nights. They include four cups of wine, eating matzah and bitter herbs, and retelling the story of the Exodus. In Hebrew it is known as Pesach (which means “to pass over”), because G‑d passed over the Jewish homes when punishing the Egyptian's firstborn on the very first Passover eve, forcing them to let the Jewish people go free. For access to a seder and a full list of holiday programs, contact your local Chabad! Cedarburg Jewish Discovery Center Chabad of the Bay Area Chabad of Bayside / The Shul Chabad of the East Side / The Shul East Chabad of Glendale & River Hills Chabad of Kenosha Chabad of Madison Chabad of Mequon Chabad of Waukesha & Brookfield Chabad of Wauwatosa Pesach Resources Candle Lighting Times What is Pesach Pesach Study The Haggadah Pesach Recipes Engage your kids in the holiday. Learn More

Read the latest news and stories from Lubavitch of Wisconsin, highlighting community impact, events, and Jewish life across the state. In the News The latest coverage on all things Lubavitch of Wisconsin – including the incredible programming our shluchim and shluchos are spearheading across the state. US Jewish groups urge heightened security at public events after Hanukkah attack in Australia NBC 26 Holocaust violins featured in Hanukkah performance at Chabad Madison WMTV 15 Local Wisconsin rabbi reacts to Australia shooting Spectrum News Madison Jewish community reacts to shooting during Hanukkah celebration in Australia 27 News Chabad of Madison celebrates Hanukkah at Hilldale WMTV15 Annual Chanukah Festival & Gelt Drop Fox6 Local Jewish community leaders respond to deadly mass shooting in Australia cbs58 News Milwaukee Milwaukee Jewish community to honor those killed in Australia terror attack at Hanukkah event TMJ4 Chanukah celebrations continue with message of unity Fox6 The Jewish Discovery Center to relocate within Cedarburg Ozaukee County News Graphic Chabad of Madison Unveils New Center Amid Jewish Growth Lubavitch.com KOSHER Deli in MILL-E-WAH-QUE Tripping Kosher YouTube From Tragedy to Triumph, This Ride Inspires Hope Across Wisconsin tmj4.com Mental health campaign to offer suicide prevention workshops across Milwaukee cbs58.com Finding Faith in Football Country During Historic Green Bay Draft chabad.org Chabad at the Draft: Kosher, Shabbat and Tefillin in Green Bay Lubavitch.com Friendship Cafe and Bakery prepping meals, cookies to be served at NFL Draft cbs58 Chabad of Madison opens new center for growing Jewish community The Cap Times Milwaukee high schoolers host podcast for teens to open up conversation about mental health TMJ4 Grand Opening for Chabad of Madison Channel 3000 Local groups hope for lasting peace after Israel and Hamas agree to ceasefire deal CBS 58 Friendship Circle's 'One Thing I Wish You Knew' event ABC WISN 12 At Milwaukee Friendship Circle, Teens Are Breaking the Silence on Mental Health Chabad.org The event, hosted by The Friendship Circle of Wisconsin and REDgen, was called “One Thing I Wish You Knew.” TMJ 4 A Southeastern Wisconsin Hanukkah celebration returns to Bayshore. ABC WISN 12

Learn about the people that sustain Lubavitch of Wisconsin, supporting Jewish education, community programs, and meaningful experiences statewide. Pillars of Support “Each individual has the capacity to build communities and endow communities with life. So that every community member becomes a source of inspiration.” — The Lubavitcher Rebbe We are forever grateful to each and every supporter whose steadfast partnership has allowed us to create a strong and vibrant presence throughout Wisconsin. Together, we have built a warm and welcoming space that promotes Torah and Mitzvos - Jewish life, Jewish learning, Jewish practice, Jewish values, and Jewish community that celebrates the richness of our people and faith. Your contribution has been instrumental in creating this vibrant community. Thank you! While our Shluchim and Shluchos may be the visible ones on the front lines, the true partnership of the individuals and organizations represented here, serve as the foundation upon which our achievements rest. A tree is only as strong as its roots, and our organization is deeply nourished and supported by your generosity and love, enabling us to grow and flourish today and into the future. The positive impact on our community is a reflection of the extraordinary individuals and organizations that stand with us and of the symbiotic relationship between Lubavitch and its cherished partners. Their vision and unwavering support have left an indelible mark on countless lives, even beyond what they might realize. Their legacy is etched into the heart of our community, fueling a future filled with promise and connection. Thank you to our pillars whose vision and support is permanently engraved in the lives of so many. Alfred Bader Bio coming soon. Isabel Bader Bio coming soon. Larry & Sheila Appel Bio coming soon. Dan & Linda Bader Bio coming soon. Joe Bernstein Bio coming soon. Mark Brickman Bio coming soon. Irv & Bev Colton Bio coming soon Nita Corre Bio coming soon. Jim & Penny Deshur Bio coming soon. Frank Gimbel Bio coming soon. Bill & Ora Gross Bio coming soon. Lorraine Hoffman Bio coming soon. Max Karl Bio coming soon. Marvin Klitsner Bio coming soon Joe Lurie Joe Lurie was a jovial, warm-hearted, and spirited individual who lived life to the fullest. He passionately advanced Lubavitch’s mission to ensure the continuity of Jewish life, making it accessible and meaningful across all ages and backgrounds. Known for his hands-on approach, Joe often carried a stack of a hundred or more solicitation cards, “pounding the pavement” to rally support for Lubavitch’s work throughout Wisconsin. He was a familiar figure at Brynwood, the Jewish country club, where he often approached friends and members to encourage their support for Lubavitch’s campaign. From 1979 to 1982, Joe served as Chairman of the Lubavitch Annual Concert, leading with dedication and enthusiasm that inspired many. After Joe’s passing in 2014, his family continued his legacy through the Papa Joe Lurie Scholarship Fund, established by his grandson Scott. This annual fund provides educational scholarships to students at Lubavitch's schools, including Jewish Beginnings, Bader Hillel Academy, and Bader Hillel High. Joe’s enduring legacy, upheld by his family, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to Jewish continuity, inspiring future generations to carry forward the values he cherished. Rick & Jane Marcus Bio coming soon Armin & Hollie Nankin Bio coming soon Bill Orenstein Bio coming soon. Alan & Vicki Samson Bio coming soon. Bernie & Helen Soref Bio coming soon. Marty Stein Bio coming soon. Sheldon & Wendy Wasserman Bio coming soon.

Celebrate Lag BaOmer with Lubavitch of Wisconsin's annual picnic and carnival! Kosher food, entertainment, inflatables, and more! Lag BaOmer In Wisconsin with Chabad Lubavitch May 25, 2027 Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, who lived in the second century of the Common Era, was the first to publicly teach the mystical dimension of the Torah known as the Kabbalah, and is the author of the classic text of Kabbalah, the Zohar. On the day of his passing, Rabbi Shimon instructed his disciples to mark the date as “the day of my joy.” The chassidic masters explain that the final day of a righteous person’s earthly life marks the point at which all their deeds, teachings and work achieve their culminating perfection and the zenith of their impact upon our lives. So each Lag BaOmer, we celebrate Rabbi Shimon’s life and the revelation of the esoteric soul of Torah. Lag BaOmer also commemorates another joyous event. The Talmud relates that in the weeks between the Jewish holidays of Passover and Shavuot, a plague raged among the disciples of the great sage Rabbi Akiva (teacher of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai), “because they did not act respectfully towards each other.” These weeks are therefore observed as a period of mourning, with various joyous activities proscribed by law and custom. On Lag BaOmer the deaths ceased. Thus, Lag BaOmer also carries the theme of loving and respecting one’s fellow (ahavat Yisrael). Join Us for a Lag BaOmer Carnival & Picnic FREE entry! Rain or shine! May 15, 2025 | 4-6PM | 6401 N. Santa Monica Blvd. Inflatables | Entertainment | Games | Carnival Snacks ...And More! Family friendly Kosher meals available for $8 RSVP NOW Find a Lag BaOmer event at your local Chabad Cedarburg Jewish Discovery Center Chabad of the Bay Area Chabad of Bayside / The Shul Chabad of the East Side / The Shul East Chabad of Glendale & River Hills Chabad of Kenosha Chabad of Madison Chabad of Mequon Chabad of Waukesha & Brookfield Chabad of Wauwatosa Lag BaOmer Resources Lag BaOmer History What is Lag BaOmer Lag BaOmer Insights Lag BaOmer Stories Engage your kids in the holiday. Join Our Lag BaOmer Celebration

Find a Chabad center near you in Wisconsin. Explore local synagogues, programs, and Jewish resources in your community. Find A Location Near Me We are an all-service organization providing a wide range of institutions and programs that serve the needs of every Jew in the state – from infants and college students to families and senior citizens...and everyone in between. Dedicated to serving every Jew in Wisconsin, we have institutions and programs across the state. Use the map to find a synagogue, school, or Chabad center near you. See a List of Locations in WI Find a Location outside of WI

This Chanukah, we invite you to participate in an extraordinary opportunity to recognize individuals who embody the enduring spirit of the Maccabees – a group of brave Jewish people who stood up against popular opinion to defend Jewish observance of Torah and mitzvahs. The Milwaukee Maccabee Awards will honor three individuals who exemplify Jewish pride, resilience, and inspiration. 2025 Milwaukee Maccabee Awards Honoring Heroes of Jewish Light, Joy, and Spirit This Chanukah, we invite you to nominate individuals who, like the ancient Maccabees, showed courage and conviction in defending Jewish life through action and heart. CRITERIA We are looking for individuals who have done one or more of the following: Stood up publicly with Jewish pride, even when it meant going against popular opinion. Carried out or completed a mitzvah despite obstacles, demonstrating exceptional dedication. Inspired others to deepen their Jewish identity, through their words, actions, or leadership. CATEGORIES Adult Maccabee: Recognizing outstanding Jewish adults who demonstrate leadership, action, and unwavering Jewish pride. Youth Maccabee: Celebrating Jewish youth (ages 12-18) who embody courage, initiative, and positive influence among their peers. Community Shamash Award: Honoring non-Jewish partners who take a stand for the Jewish community and the values of faith, freedom, and respect. Four winners will be honored at the Chanukah Festival & Gelt Drop on Sunday, December 14th, sharing their stories and spreading light in our community. Nominate Someone Today Nominations close Sunday, December 7th at 11:59 pm CST Your First & Last Name Your Email Your Phone Number Name of Nominee Which of the following nomination critera has your nominee met? (select all that apply) * Required Stood up with Jewish pride in the face of "popular" opinion, demonstrating courage and conviction Undertook or fulfilled a mitzvah despite facing adversity, serving as a model of dedication and commitment. Inspired others to connect more deeply to their Jewish identity through their words, actions, or example. Age of nominee Which Award Category best represents your nominee? (select one) Adult Maccabee (18+) Youth Maccabee (12-18) Community Shamash Award (non-Jewish partner) Please share specific examples demonstrating how the nominee has met one or more of the nomination criteria. Submit Thank you for submitting! Winners will be selected and notified by December 9th. Nomination form

Chanukah In Wisconsin with Chabad Lubavitch December 4 - 12, 2026 Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabees’ victory over the Syrian-Greek oppressors. Following the battle, the Jewish people found only a small amount of oil to light the menorah, enough to last just one day. Miraculously, the oil burned for eight days, allowing time to prepare more. This eight-day holiday is celebrated by lighting the menorah each night, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and spirit over oppression. If you need help securing a menorah, please contact us . Thanks to our incredible rabbis and rebbetzins, Chanukah is celebrated around the state all eight nights! Join us for our Chanukah Festival and Gelt Drop on Sunday, December 14th at Bayshore and click here for a full list of Chanukah activities and celebrations. Join us as we light up Milwaukee with our annual Chanukah Festival & Gelt Drop: a celebration of light, joy, and community for all ages! Sunday, December 14th at 4:00 PM The Yard at Bayshore Pre-register to get a FREE holographic gelt belt bag RSVP NOW Kick off your Chanukah with an inspiring show of Jewish pride at our annual Grand Car Menorah Parade! Start at Chabad of Mequon, parade through the suburbs of Milwaukee, and end at Bayshore for the grand Chanukah Festival & Gelt Drop. Limited number of menorahs available. RESERVE YOUR MENORAH For a full list of Chanukah activities & celebrations, click HERE or contact your local Chabad! Full List of Events Cedarburg Jewish Discovery Center Chabad of the Bay Area Chabad of Bayside / The Shul Chabad on Campus MKE Chabad of the East Side / The Shul East Chabad of Glendale & River Hills Chabad of Kenosha Chabad of Madison Chabad of Mequon Chabad of Waukesha & Brookfield Chabad of Wauwatosa Friendship Circle of Wisconsin UW Chabad - Madison Local Chanukah Chanukah Resources Menorah Lighting What is Chanukah Chanukah Insights The Story of Chanukah Chanukah Recipes Engage your kids in the holiday. Learn More

Learn how Lubavitch of Wisconsin operates as an independent nonprofit with local funding, strong governance, and a mission-driven structure serving communities statewide. How We Begin The Rebbe (today, Chabad Headquarters) appoints an envoy, a Shliach, to represent Lubavitch in each state or region throughout the world. In 1968 the Rebbe appointed Rabbi Yisroel and B. Devorah Shmotkin as the Shluchim to the state of Wisconsin. They founded the organization that would become Lubavitch of Wisconsin (LWI) – a dynamic organization committed to meeting the needs of each and every Jew across the state. To achieve this reach, additional Shluchim would be appointed to serve particular areas within the larger regional framework. More About the Movement How We Grow Learn More What We Do LWI Umbrella Activities Programs External Identify needs and hire staff for new Chabad houses, institutions, and programs. Deliver state and city-wide events and programs, including Jewish awareness, mitzvah, and holiday campaigns and events, m ikvah, Women’s Circle, Senior Connections, Gitel Bas Moshe fund, and Chabad Cares Internal Convene Shluchim – Meetings, Torah study, seminars, annual convention, and get-togethers Management Ensure adherence to the Rebbe's mission and vision. Certify that organization-wide governance and programs and initiatives align with Chabad-Lubavitch's mission and values. Provide management / resources for its divisions’ legal, accounting, database, and property management needs. Finance External Fundraise for organization-wide needs/initiatives Develop/manage endowment fund Internal We provide: Accounting office - A/R and A/P Funding for new Shluchim & institutions Budgeting / fundraising resources Emergency Shluchim assistance Holiday and Simcha Assistance Gitel Bas Moshe Assistance Fund Capital Campaign / Special Program Assistance Communications External We provide: General Lubavitch marketing Media relations Celebration Magazine Shabbat Candle lighting Other Misc publications Internal Internal communications Frequently Asked Questions What is the governance structure of LWI? Lubavitch of Wisconsin (LWI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a governance structure similar to many other religious nonprofit entities. LWI operates under the oversight of an independent Board of Directors, which ensures financial accountability and provides strategic guidance. The board plays the role in bridging the organization's vision with its practical execution, helping to ensure long-term sustainability. The board is composed of community leaders, business professionals, and Shluchim, all of whom share a commitment to LWI's mission. As with many religious nonprofit organizations—ranging from places of worship to religious universities—the chief executive of LWI is appointed by a central religious authority, in this case, the Rebbe, OBM, and today through the office of Lubavitch Headquarters in New York. This appointed individual, known as the Regional Shliach, serves as both the president and executive director. While the board provides essential oversight and strategic input, the responsibility for setting the organization's overall strategic vision, direction, and goals lies with the chief executive, ensuring alignment across all divisions with the guiding principles of the organization. What is the relationship between LWI and headquarters in New York? From a governance and practical perspective, Lubavitch of WI operates independently, managing its own finances, operations, and programs. Chabad headquarters in New York provides a broad framework for the mission and values that guide Chabad's global activities, but it does not involve itself in the direct governance of regional centers. Each regional center is funded exclusively through local and user contributions from individuals, foundations and corporations. No financial obligations or dues are required from the regional or local Chabad centers to Chabad headquarters in NY. One hundred percent of funds procured remain local unless a donor explicitly designates them for another purpose. Chabad headquarters will often provide training and educational programs to Shluchim and Shluchos, and supply resources such as educational materials, publicity materials, and technology. Were a center to, G-d forbid, face significant challenges or disputes, headquarters may step in to provide mediation, conflict resolution, and, if necessary, temporary financial assistance. This involvement is designed to uphold the integrity and continuity of the Chabad mission while respecting the autonomy of each center. The financial independence of each center is a cornerstone of the Chabad Lubavitch network, allowing regional centers to tailor their operations and outreach efforts to the specific needs of their local communities while still being aligned with the global mission of Chabad Lubavitch. What is the governance structure between Lubavitch of Wisconsin and its divisions? Each division is organized as a stand-alone corporation within the strategic aims, guidelines and purview set by LWI, and are legally bound as divisions of Lubavitch of WI. Each division is led by a Shliach who is appointed by the Regional Shliach and is responsible for the management and operations of their respective centers or programs. Each division has its own board of directors responsible for overseeing financial and legal compliance, monitoring programming, and providing community insight. They also help maintain transparency and accountability at the local level. Divisions operate with the autonomy that allows them to address the unique needs of their communities and their areas of concern effectively. They are required to align their operations, programs, and initiatives with the broader strategic goals and mission of LWI. This balance allows local needs to be met while providing a cohesive and unified direction at the regional organizational level. Regular communication and reporting channels between LWI and its divisions facilitate transparency, accountability, and mutual support. This includes periodic reporting on program outcomes, financial performance, and other key metrics that inform both operational adjustments and strategic planning. Where does the money come from and what does it go to? Virtually 100% of funds come from within Wisconsin and individuals and granting organizations who have been affected by our programming. 100% of funds are expended locally, unless otherwise designated or restricted by donors or foundations. What is the financial relationship between LWI and its divisions? LWI provides initial startup funding and resources to its programs and divisions. Each division is expected to develop financial self-sufficiency and independence – generating their own funding by developing a donor base of constituents. This is meant to ensure greater sustainability while providing for flexibility and the autonomy to tailor programs to their community's particular needs. Each division is solely responsible for its own financial obligations and legal compliance. Divisions manage their day-to-day budgeting, fundraising, and operations and are required to be compliant with all legal requirements and ethical standards. To maintain transparency and accountability, divisions provide budgets and financials for review by LWI. Funds are expected to be used effectively and in alignment with the organization's mission and values. LWI does not assume legal responsibility for the division’s financial obligations and legal compliance. In addition to LWI's initial funding, it will at times make grants to its divisions to help cover costs associated with launching new programs or expanding existing services. This support is tailored to the specific needs of each division. LWI provides resource sharing opportunities to optimize efficiency and cost savings. These can include shared administrative, accounting, and marketing services, joint purchasing agreements, or collaborative fundraising efforts. LWI also invests in the capacity building of its divisions. This involves training leaders, sharing best practices, and providing access to tools and technologies that enhance their operational effectiveness and their ability to serve their communities. What does "financial self-sufficiency" look like for a division/program? "Financial self-sufficiency" for a division/program refers to its ability to sustain its operations, including salaries, overhead, program expenses, and any other necessary expenditures through its own revenue streams. These can include fees for services, donations, grants, and fundraising activities. In addition, it means that the division/program exhibits the ability to plan, manage, and adjust its budget effectively, ensuring that expenditures are aligned with revenues. Beyond simply covering current operational costs, a financially independent program has the capacity to invest in its growth and development. This can include expanding existing services, developing new initiatives, or enhancing infrastructure and resources to better serve its mission. Even financially independent divisions/programs must still adhere to the overarching mission and strategic goals of the overall organization. While divisions manage their day-to-day budgeting, fundraising, and operations, LWI requires compliance with all legal requirements and ethical standards. To maintain transparency and accountability, divisions provide budgets and financials for review ensuring funds are used effectively and in alignment with the organization's mission and values. In addition to LWI's initial funding, it will at times fund or make grants to divisions to help cover costs associated with launching new programs or expanding existing services. This support is tailored to the specific needs of each division. LWI provides resource sharing opportunities to optimize costs and efficiency. These can include shared administrative, accounting, and marketing services, joint purchasing agreements, or collaborative fundraising efforts. LWI also invests in the capacity building of its divisions. This involves training leaders, sharing best practices, and providing access to tools and technologies that enhance their operational effectiveness and their ability to serve their communities. How does Lubavitch of Wisconsin open new locations? When LWI is contacted about or identifies a community/constituency that calls for increased Jewish engagement, support, or services, we conduct research to understand the unique characteristics of the potential location/area of need. Among the considerations are the potential impact on existing Chabad centers and programs, the same for other communal institutions, and the demographic's ability to support the program over the long term (and if not, what other resources may be leveraged). Upon deciding to proceed, LWI directs its resources, including human capital, technology, programmatic and educational tools and programs, and financial support, to establish a presence that is to become both sustainable and deeply integrated into the community, aiming to enrich Jewish life and education in the area. FAQ